Liverpool are said to be in pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, as manager Jurgen Klopp looks for alternatives to Jude Bellingham.
Uncertain future for De Jong amid Financial Woes
Reports suggest that Barcelona’s financial struggles may force them to sell some of their prized assets, including De Jong, who has caught the attention of English clubs for some time now.
Manchester United had come close to signing him last summer, but the player had chosen to stay at Barcelona.
However, with Barca’s financial situation worsening, De Jong’s future at the club may be uncertain, and Liverpool, along with Chelsea, are now reportedly interested in securing his services.
Liverpool’s Alternatives to Bellingham
Liverpool had initially been prioritizing a move for Bellingham, but with the English star likely to come with a hefty price tag, Klopp may be considering other options.
Recent links with Chelsea’s Mateo Kovacic indicate that Klopp is looking to strengthen his midfield with multiple signings.
De Jong: Ideal Midfield Addition to Liverpool
De Jong, with his impressive technical and tactical abilities, could be an ideal addition to the Liverpool squad and a solid alternative to Bellingham.
De Jong’s ability to read the game, maintain possession under pressure, and create scoring opportunities from the back has earned him praise from Barcelona manager Xavi, who has described him as the best he has seen since taking over the team.
De Jong’s vision and spatial awareness, combined with his close ball control and press resistance, make him a formidable presence in midfield.
Financial Challenges in Klopp’s Pursuit
Barcelona, however, may demand a significant fee for De Jong, potentially higher than the €75 million they paid for him in 2019. With Chelsea’s financial power, they could emerge as front runners for his signature.
Nevertheless, Klopp’s admiration for De Jong’s talents and Liverpool’s need for midfield reinforcements may make them serious contenders in the pursuit of the Dutchman.
Xavi’s Determination to Retain Frenkie de Jong as Busquets’ Successor at Barcelona
However, Xavi seems determined to keep hold of the Dutchman. He said,
“We’re seeing the best Frenkie since me and my staff arrived here at Barcelona,”
He told reporters.
“De Jong is doing great in both attack and defence, he has brutal confidence and we’re happy with him.”
Xavi will use de Jong as Busquet’s replacement until the end of the season, and perhaps even beyond.
With Gavi and Pedri performing at a high level, if de Jong could become a quality pivot, it would solve a significant issue for Barcelona.
Currently, the succession plan for Busquets is one of the biggest priorities at Barcelona, and bringing in a quality replacement will be a costly endeavor.
Following the 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid on Sunday Xavi said in the post-match interview,
“Frenkie de Jong has been very comfortable, Pedri changes the face of the team when he comes on, I feel more calm when Frenkie and Pedri are there,”
The Bigger Picture
As the summer window approaches, all eyes will be on De Jong’s future at Barcelona and the potential suitors vying for his signature.
Whether Liverpool will be able to secure his services will depend on various factors, including the financial demands of Barcelona and the competition from other clubs.
Nevertheless, De Jong’s arrival at Anfield could elevate Liverpool’s midfield to new heights and provide Klopp with a witty alternative to Bellingham in his pursuit of strengthening his squad for future challenges.
Passionate about the beautiful game and dedicated to Liverpool FC, where “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is not just a slogan, but a way of life. I live and breathe football, from the roar of the Anfield crowd to the tactical intricacies of the sport.
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